Partick Thistle manager John Lambie accepts that top goalscorer Alex Burns could leave the club when his contract expires in the summer.

Burns has indicated he may move on in order to gain security for his family and Lambie admits Thistle cannot compete financially with their SPL rivals.

Lambie is also unwilling to discuss new deals with any of his players, preferring to concentrate on on-field matters.

But he acknowledges that Burns' success in front of goal is a double-edged sword that could see him leave for a bigger club.

The ace up my sleeve when it comes to negotiations is the goals I've been scoring Alex Burns

"I have spoken to the boy and he will be able to hold his head up high whatever happens next season," added Lambie.

"He is an out-and-out winner and he will want to finish the season on a high.

"It is difficult for us because we are the lowest payers in the Premier League. We have been in dire straits before and we don't want to go back there.

"If you are sitting on a lot of money it is easier to tie people up, but we are not.

"Money is nice, but you should also be happy in your work."

Burns has scored 14 goals this season and that is sure to have attracted the attention of other clubs.

The much-travelled striker told the Daily Record on Thursday that, at 30, he was determined to make the correct decision for the benefit of his career.

"The ace up my sleeve when it comes to negotiations is the goals I've been scoring," added Burns.

"I could get injured next week and my future would look entirely different."